Every year there are customers who don’t make the most of their Science Materials Center (SMC) discount with Carolina Biological Supply Company. These eight simple tips will help every customer make sure that every dollar spent gets the most materials to support their science program.

1. Use Your Account Number
   At Carolina Biological Supply Company, your SMC contract is tied to your account number. This means any purchase you make on your account will automatically get the appropriate discount (with the exception of the bulk discount for Gold Star SMCs, which requires a quotation). In addition to your curriculum discount, using your account number also provides discounts on countless other Carolina products. Some customers do not get their discount because they do not reference their account number when ordering, so customer service does not know they are eligible for discounts.
   
   
2. Buy in Bulk
   The STC Bulk catalog allows customers to save even more by buying in bulk. The bulk configurations were designed specifically for Science Material Centers who use individual components to refurbish kits. The pricing on bulk items is designed to be cheaper than the component items. Keep in mind that bulk items may take as long as 6–8 weeks to arrive if they are drop shipped (shipped directly from the supplier).
   
   
3. Work with Your Local Sales Rep
   Updates, specials, and new configurations! Carolina Curriculum provides solutions to a variety of school needs. Your local sales rep can help you navigate the variety of available options whether you are looking to upgrade existing materials or evaluate new ones.
   
   
4. Get a Quote First
   Not sure what the price is? The easiest way to know the cost before you order is to get a quote. Carolina’s quotation specialists can quickly put together a quote that will lock in prices as well as shipping charges. Quotes are also a great way to share your discount with schools in your district. Items quoted to the primary account can be purchased by schools or individuals (who may not be on the contract) at the quoted price.
   
   
5. Check Your Email
   Carolina Curriculum regularly runs special offers for SMCs and other customers exclusively through email. Make sure that you are not missing these discounts in your spam folder.
   
   
6. Know Your Benefits
   Free living materials for trainings, reduced shipping, and bulk access are only some of the many benefits of being a SMC contract holder. If you are unsure about all the benefits you’re eligible for, request a list from your local sales rep.
   
   
7. Ask Questions
   Need 1,000 crates or 500 compressed sponges? While these items are not offered in bulk, Carolina is more than happy to evaluate large individual orders for special pricing if requested. Don’t think your order is right? If your order seems wrong for any reason, let us and know and we will research how to make it right.
   
   
8. Remember Your Renewal
   Every June, the status of every contract holder is re-evaluated. Since your status is based on purchases of STC components and/or STC refurbishment sets in the prior year, keep June in mind to make sure to earn the best possible discount for your group.